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American
alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)
This is the largest reptile in North
America, reaching up to 19 feet (5m) in length. Whilst most
commonly seen in freshwater lakes, marshes, rivers and swamps,
it also ventures into the sea. It is distinguished from
the American Crocodile (which is much rarer) by the broad,
rounded snout and no visible teeth when its mouth is closed.
The have a broad diet, eating fish, small mammals, turtles
and invertebtrates. They play a key role in the ecology
of their habitat by digging deep pits in times of drought
which provide water holes for a wide range of species.
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The walking
trail through the Ding Darling Refuge on Sanibel Island, Florida,
is normally quiet, with most visitors driving on the 5 mile
road. This Alligator was spied through the dense mangroves
that border the path.
Ref:
AmAll1
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Everglades
National Park, Florida
Ref:
AmAll2
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Everglades
National Park, Florida
Ref:
AmAll3
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The
13 mile track around Shark Valley in the Everglades National
Park, Florida, can be walked, cycled or riden on the gas-powered
park bus. It offers very close encounters with the wildlife.
Ref:
AmAll4
23M |
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